Exciting Area

Fukushima P.20 Prefecture

MAP About 1.5 hours by Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Fukushima Station, Fukushima Prefecture's main station

Fukushima Azuma Tokyo P.4 Baseball Stadium

• About 1 hour by train from Narita International Airport to Tokyo Station Fukushima Station • About 30 minutes by train from Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) to Tokyo Station Nippon Budokan

Tokyo International Kokugikan Arena Saitama P.16 Japan National Stadium Forum Prefecture

About 30 minutes by train from Tokyo Tokyo Aquatics Centre Musashinonomori Station to Omiya Park Station, Saitama Kasumigaseki Country Club Prefecture's main station Asaka Shooting Range Tatsumi Water Polo Centre Saitama Super Chiba P.12 Arena Tokyo Musashino Forest Prefecture Metropolitan Yoyogi National Ariake Urban Sports Park Sport Plaza Gymnasium Stadium Yumenoshima Saitama Stadium 2002 About 1 hour by train Park Archery Field from Tokyo Station to Chiba Station, Chiba Prefecture's main station Omiya Ariake Tennis Park Ariake Arena Station Tokyo Tokyo Stadium Station Narita Odaiba Marine Park Airport Ariake Gymnastics Kasai Canoe Chiba Centre Slalom Centre Haneda Station Airport Yokohama Makuhari Messe Hall Station Shiokaze Park Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach Aomi Urban Sports Park Sea Forest Waterway

Kanagawa P.8 Sea Forest Cross-Country Course Prefecture Oi Hockey Stadium About 30 minutes by train Yokohama Baseball International from Tokyo Station to Stadium Stadium Yokohama Yokohama Station, Kanagawa Prefecture's main station. Enoshima Yacht Harbour

2 Exciting Area Map Exciting Area

Fukushima P.20 Prefecture

MAP About 1.5 hours by Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Fukushima Station, Fukushima Prefecture's main station

Fukushima Azuma Tokyo P.4 Baseball Stadium

Tokyo International Kokugikan Arena Saitama P.16 Japan National Stadium Forum Prefecture

Exciting Area Map 3 Asakusa TOKYO Ninja Trick House About 20 minutes About 25 minutes by train by train from Tokyo Tokyo, the capital of from Tokyo Station Station to Asakusa Japan, is the center Station of politics, economy, and culture. It is an ideal area to enjoy sightseeing and shopping, but there are also many activities unique to the urban city!

Tokyo Station Akigawa Valley Kyunaka River About 2 hours by train and bus About 30 minutes The Imperial Palace Haneda by train from Tokyo from Tokyo Station Airport About 12 minutes by Station to Oshima train from Tokyo Station Komatsugawa Park

Kayak at the Foot of Tokyo Skytree Discover a different side of Tokyo on a 90-minute journey downriver.

The Kyunaka River flows through Tokyo’s shitamachi area—the low-lying area of eastern Tokyo—at a leisurely pace, thanks to the system of sluice gates. The cleanliness of the water is one of best among Tokyo’s rivers. This 90-minute kayaking course starts and ends around Ojima Komatsugawa Park, and is great for both beginners and sports enthusiasts alike. The course takes you upriver, under various bridges, until you see Skytree rising majestically in the distance. Once the sun goes down, 1 the night views of the city are truly spectacular. Please note that jeans, chinos and skirts are not allowed, and water

3 suitable sportswear is highly encouraged. 1 Tokyo looks especially gorgeous while cruising on a kayak. 2 Two-person kayaks require both Reference participants to be in sync. Website: 2 3 Travel beneath many uniquely shaped The Official Tokyo bridges. Travel Guide

4 To kyo Trekking and Fishing in Akigawa Valley 1

Enjoy trekking and fishing just a stone’s throw from the big city.

Located in West Tokyo only 60 minutes from the heart of the city, the Akigawa Valley is abundant in nature. Visitors can enjoy fishing for Ayu, trout and rainbow trout in the crystal clear Akigawa River, which also has ample space for cookouts! There are also extensive strolling courses in the mountains around Akigawa valley, and many hikers visit all year round. One local favorite is Konpirayama, which is about a 60-minute hike if you start from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station. The highlight of the area is Ishibune Bridge, a suspension bridge that offers such beautiful views visitors can’t help but take pictures! Relax at the hot spring facility at 2 the end of the bridge, and soak your feet in the free footbath while listening to the gentle murmur of the Akigawa River. 3 Be sure to stop by the tourist information center at Musashi- Itsukaichi Station at the start of your journey—it’s full of useful materials about the area.

1 A pedestrian-only suspension bridge, the Ishibune Bridge is a symbol of Akigawa Valley. 2 Many people gather for the opening day of Ayu fishing season, an event that Reference Website: signals the start of summer. The Official Tokyo 3 The riverside is great for Travel Guide cookouts and fun with friends and family.

To kyo 5 Discover the Mysterious Way of the Shinobi at the Ninja Trick House Become the ninja you were meant to be with this unforgettable experience that’s fun for the whole family! 1 You know them from popular Japanese movies and 2 3 anime, and the legends that surround them: ninjas! If you’ve dreamed of entering the shadowy realm of the shinobi, the Ninja Trick House in Shinjuku is your dream come true! Go back through time in Tokyo and step into the shoes of the ninja— accept your mission as told through charming anime movies, then learn about the mysterious duties of the ninja, and the tools of the trade they used to carry out their master’s will. Actualize 1 Rubber ninja stars are safe, and kid-friendly! your true potential as a ninja master, and try your 2 Can you draw your hand at throwing shuriken ninja stars, and swiftly sword as swiftly as a drawing your sword. With information in 17 different ninja master? Reference 3 Discover the hidden languages—including English, Chinese, Korean, Website: mysterious of the Ninja The Official Tokyo German, French and more—the only thing you’ll Trick House! Travel Guide have to worry about is hitting your target!

1 This massive 1 baseball glove makes Knock One Out of the Asakusa Batting Stadium easy to recognize. the Park in Tokyo! 2 There’s nothing like finally knocking one Feel Japan’s undying love for baseball at the out of the park! batting cage! 3 Some batting cages feature virtual images Baseball is one of Japan’s most beloved sports—born from the reminiscent of obsession of baseball lovers, batting cages have also become a Japan’s professional baseball league cultural fixture. Sure it looks easy—but looks can be deceiving! games. No matter how many times you might strike out, there’s nothing better than finally knocking one out of the park. Many people visit for exercise (as well as stress relief), and with locations in tourist hot spots like Asakusa, they’re the perfect place to stop when you need a break from sightseeing! Reference Website: JAPAN SPORTS 2 JOURNEY

6 To kyo The Imperial Palace1 2 Running Route—A Mecca for Runners Soak up the sights and history of the Imperial Palace along this charming running route.

With easy access and many nearby offices, it’s easy to see 3 why some 10,000 runners jog around the Imperial Palace on busy days. The route takes joggers past many popular Tokyo sights; the inner moat of the Imperial Palace grounds, the Sakuradamon Gate, the National Diet Building, and a constant view of Tokyo Tower in the background. Another benefit? There are no traffic lights, so the 5 km route isn’t full of starts and stops. While there’s no starting point, the unwritten rule is to run counter-clockwise in order 1 Many runners work up to prioritize pedestrians. Didn’t a sweat after clocking bring your running shoes? There out of the office. 2 Enjoy a pleasant run in are rental services for shoes and the heart of Tokyo. sportswear, and also running 3 The wide lanes near Reference stations that are equipped with the moat around Website: the Imperial Palace The Official Tokyo showers and lockers! are filled with lush Travel Guide greenery.

Local Delicacies in Tokyo

Sushi Tempura Ramen Some of the freshest fish from across Tempura—battered and deep- Popular around the world, ramen is one Japan is sold at Tokyo’s old Tsukiji Market, fried seafood and vegetables— of Japan’s most beloved soul foods. and the new Toyosu Market. There are is one of Japan’s most popular There are more than 10,000 ramen many restaurants that serve dishes. One bite of crunchy, restaurants in Tokyo alone, so authentic sushi made my juicy tempura is all it takes to fall you can spend your whole life master sushi chefs, so be sure in love! dining on different takes of this to try some! delicious dish!

To kyo 7 KANAGAWA Yokohama PREFECTURE Station Imai Dojo Kanagawa is a place full of sightseeing About 15 spots such as the port city of Yokohama, minutes by the ancient capital of Kamakura, and train and on Hakone, surrounded by hot springs foot from and beautiful nature. Various marine Yokohama sports are available along the sea in Station to Imai Dojo Kanagawa, and there are many courses for beginners, so check it out. Oyama About 1 hour Odawara, Hakone 45 minutes Yugawara, and About About 1 by train and Manazuru hour 20 minutes bus from Shonan and the Miura About 50 minutes by by train from Yokohama Peninsula train from Yokohama Yokohama Station Station to About 25 minutes by train from Station to Odawara to Hakone Yumoto Oyama Cable Yokohama Station to Kamakura Station Station Station Station Dive Deep into Odawara, Yugawara, Whether a total novice or an old pro, these diving spots and Manazuru! offer views on an incredible variety of marine life!

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3 In addition to a thriving fishing industry, Manazuru is also known as a diving hot spot, thanks to its rich variety of beautiful fish. Kotogahama, on the other hand, is known as the birthplace of scuba diving in Japan, full of colorful tropical fish. Meanwhile, the Ishibashi diving spot in Odawara is home to boulders that were used to make the stone walls of Edo Castle—you can actually see the ruins below the water’s surface! Additionally, there are multiple diving spots in the area, as well as diving schools and shops. Once you’ve had your fill of the water, you can visit the iconic Odawara Castle, soak it up in one of the many local hot springs, and enjoy some local sightseeing.

1 Just one hour from the city, this diving spot is easily accessible. The unique geographical features and variety of fish make it a must-visit! 2 There are also many diving shops and schools in the area, so even if you’re unexperienced or unequipped you can have an Reference underwater adventure! Website: 3 The seascape you discover depends on where you dive! People Feel SHONAN often find some of the rarest fish species in these areas.

8 Kanagawa Prefecture Marine Sports in Shonan and the Miura Peninsula

2 Test your mettle with a variety of water activities in Japan’s marine sports mecca!

Kanagawa Prefecture’s coastal areas are dotted with places where visitors can enjoy marine sports, like the surfing mecca Kugenumakaigan, as well as Zushi and Hayama. Just a short train ride from Tokyo, many water sports enthusiasts actually move from the city to make the most of these areas. In addition to the classics like surfing, wind surfing, diving, yachting, kayaking and fishing, enjoy modern activities like standup paddle boarding and flyboarding (which is basically an aquatic jet pack!). There are schools for beginners and wetsuit rentals, so even the inexperienced can give it a try! With summer festivals and fireworks shows, a large, kid-friendly swimming pool and an aquarium, it’s easy to spend an entire day having fun in the sun.

3 1 Mount Fuji and Enoshima can be seen in the distance from the marina in Sagami Bay. 2 There are plenty of Reference schools where you can Website: experience various marine Feel SHONAN sports 3 You can’t beat the beauty of the beach at sunset!

Kanagawa Prefecture 9 Hiking Mount Oyama Discover one-of-a-kind beauty on the peak of Mount Oyama.

2 When the population of Japan’s old capital, Edo, was one Reference million people, some two hundred thousand would hike Mount Website: Isehara City Oyama—a trip called the Oyama Pilgrimage—every year. Tourism Towering 1,252 meters, the mountain has been featured in Association many ukiyo-e paintings, and is steeped in culture and history, 1 The incredible view and incredible natural beauty. With easy access from the city from Oyama’s Afuri and a cable car that brings you deep in the mountains with Temple earned it two ease, it is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. After stars from the Michelin 3 Green Guide. taking the cable car, it’s about a 90 minute hike to the peak. 2 Oyama was registered The incredible panoramic view from the top offers views of as a Japan Heritage site in April, 2016. not only Mount Fuji, but Tokyo’s sprawling skyscrapers and 3 Enjoy hiking in the even Chiba’s Boso Peninsula. There are hiking maps written in fresh green of spring English, Chinese, Korean, French, and more, as well as other or the vibrant colors of autumn. guides written in English available.

Train both your body and mind, and master both the spirit and Imai Dojo fundamentals of the Japanese martial art, Karate.

Karate has gained increasing attention abroad, and as a result, a growing number of visitors to Japan want to see and experience 1 traditional martial arts. More than simply improving skills, karate provides the means to strengthen both mind and body, and fosters a spirit of discipline and consideration for others. It is that uniquely Japanese spirit that attracts martial arts fans from around the globe. Located right next to Yokohama Stadium, Imai Dojo is the perfect place for tourists to get hands-on with this enduring martial art. A two hour trial self-defense course is only ¥ 2,000 and includes English language explanation materials. 2 3

1 Many group tours visit Imai Dojo for hands-on training as well. 2 Instructor Imai is a tough fighter who hasn’t received a point deduction in 10 years! Reference 3 One advantage of martial arts is that Website: Japanese language isn’t a requirement; Imai Dojo simply watch and learn!

10 Kanagawa Prefecture 1 2

An Unforgettable Hakone Journey Hakone is easy to access from Tokyo, and offers incredible outdoor activities.

A town greatly cherished for its exquisite hot spring resorts, Kanagawa 1 Featuring an almost Prefecture’s Hakone is a treasured tourist site, partly because of its easy unending stone trail, the Old Hakone Road is access from Tokyo—only an hour and a half from Tokyo and Shinjuku by a popular hiking route train. Surrounded by gorgeous mountains, lakes and wetlands, Hakone offers steeped in rich Japanese numerous exhilarating outdoor activities, such as climbing, hiking, cycling, history. 2 Board a pirate ship and kayaking. Some perennial favorites include climbing Mount Kintoki, searching for treasure on which offers a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji from the summit, and hiking Lake Ashi! Reference on the Old Hakone Road, which feels like going back in time. Other notable 3 Enjoy Owakudani on the Website: Hakone Ropeway, where Hakone Tourist highlights include gourmet eateries and long-established restaurants where you can see the dynamic Information Portal you can enjoy delicate traditional Japanese cuisine. When you visit Hakone, volcanic smoke rising. Website be sure to stay at traditional Japanese inn and soak in a hot spring for unmatched relaxation. Local Delicacies in Kanagawa

Shirasu Misaki Maguro Yokosuka Navy Burger Kanagawa Prefecture looks out over two Misaki Harbor is one of the leading Yokosuka is home to an American seas, so it’s no surprise that regional cuisine harbors that lands the most tuna military base, and the U.S. Navy’s features a lot of seafood. Shirasu—or nationwide, so many dishes utilize traditional hamburger recipe was shared whitebait—is especially popular this freshly-caught delicacy. as a symbol of friendship in the Shonan area, and is Whether served as sashimi, sushi, in 2008. The result is the typically served over rice. simmered or more, there’s no wonderfully juicy Yokosuka wrong way to eat it! Navy Burger!

Kanagawa Prefecture 11 Sawara • About 1 hour 20 minutes by train CHIBA from Chiba Station to Sawara Station • About 30 minutes by train from Narita Airport to Sawara Station Narita PREFECTURE Airport Sakura and Narita Chiba has Narita International Kujukuri Coast About 15 minutes to Airport, so it is easy to stop by Chiba About 1 hour by train Sakura Station, about 30 before or after your trip. As the Station and bus from Chiba minutes to Narita Station three sides of the prefecture are Station to Katagai by train from Chiba surrounded by the sea, there Station Station are many marine activities. Also, you can enjoy peaceful natural Mount Nokogiri Futtsu scenery and historical and About 1 hour 15 About 1 hour 30 minutes cultural heritage. minutes by train from by train and bus from Chiba Station to Chiba Station to Futtsu Hamakanaya Station Port

Hiking Mount Nokogiri 1

2 Mount Nokogiri is a place where nature and culture live in harmony to create truly beautiful scenery.

From the 1800s until the 1980s, Mount Nokogiri was known as a prosperous quarry that produced Boshuishi, a high quality stone used to build moats for castles, among other things. It was named Mount Nokogiri—literally “Saw Mountain” in English—for the bare, rigid rock that was exposed from quarrying the mountain, said to resemble the teeth of a saw. The ropeway takes you from the base of the mountain to the peak, which stands at 329 meters tall, in four minutes. The peak hosts an observatory, and on clear 3 days visitors can see both Mount Fuji and Tokyo Skytree. The southern slope of Mount Nokogiri is part of a 1,300 year old temple, Nihon-ji, and can be accessed from the ropeway station at the top. The Jigoku Nozoki, or “Gaze into Hell” from one of the peak’s rocky cliff edges is thrilling, and quite popular among locals and tourists alike!

1 The ropeway station at the peak is Reference Website: complete with free Wi-Fi. Chiba Prefectural 2 Anyone with a fear of heights should Tourism & Local Products beware the “Gaze into Hell!” Association 3 One highlight is the 31-meter-tall Buddha statue carved from the mountain.

12 Chiba Prefecture Cycling in Sakura and Narita 1

2 Cycle around the old castle town of Sakura and the temple town of Narita.

Chiba Prefecture is one of the best places for cycling—especially around Lake Inbanuma, which has a well-maintained cycling road, and in Sakura, which has four convenient bike rental locations around town. Sakura also has an old-style castle town, with a retro atmosphere straight out of the Edo Period. There are plenty of must-see historical stops along the way, such as the former residence of Masatomo Hotta—the last lord of the Sakura Domain in the Edo Period—as well as the street of old samurai residences and Hiyodorizaka, a gorgeous bamboo grove. For art lovers, there’s the Kawamura Memorial DIC Museum of Art, which houses many collections centering on art from the 20th century. The nearby town of Narita is 3 the perfect place to bike to next. It’s home to the famous Naritsan Shinshoji Temple, and since it’s so close to Narita International Airport, it’s a great place to visit at the beginning or end of your trip!

1 You can enjoy different flowers every season at Sakura Furusato Square. 2 The cycling road is full of die-hard cyclists and bike renters alike. 3 More than 10 million visitors come from across the country to visit Naritasan Shinshoji Temple.

Reference Website: Chiba Prefectural Tourism & Local Products Association

Chiba Prefecture 13 Great for beginners and families, try sea Fishing at fishing on a real fishing boat! Thanks to its location close to the Kisarazu Kaneda IC on the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line, Futtsu Fishing Port Futtsu Fishing is easy to get to from both Tokyo and Kanagawa Prefecture. Because of the relatively calm waters Port of this deep inner bay, high-quality fishing can be enjoyed year-round! Small octopi inhabit shallow waters and can be caught without bait, which makes it an ideal experience for beginners and children! At the end of the summer, the Iidako Octopus Fishing Tournament is held, bringing with it many tourists. Please note that you cannot fish at the quay wall of the Futtsu Fishing Port. Please make sure to use fishing boats provided by the Fishing 1 Boat Association in conjunction with the Futtsu City Tourism Association.

2 3 1 Futtsu Fishing Port is the gateway to Minamiboso. 2 The area is known for its abundant fishing waters, with all sorts of fish to catch! 3 Bass, octopus and hairtail are common Reference Website: catches during the Futtsu tourism summer fishing season. organizations Explore Japan’s “Little Edo”on the Ono River Sightseeing Cruise Ride the river and soak in the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese townscape.

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Due to its location along the Tone River Basin, the town of Sawara 3 flourished as a shipping center for goods sent to Edo (present day Tokyo). The Ono River runs through Sawara, and the mortar-walled merchant warehouses and traditional Japanese residences that line the canal create a nostalgic atmosphere that hearkens back to that time. Board the sappa bune—small wooden boats—and float gently beneath weeping willows. Be sure to stop by the Katori Shrine; this local power spot is a great place to recharge your spiritual battery. This idyllic blast from the past is only 30 minutes from Narita Airport, so what are you waiting for?

1 Soak in the historic scenery with a Reference 30 minute sightseeing cruise. Website: 2 Step back in time and get lost in Suigo-Sawara the enduring Edo era atmosphere. Tourist 3 The guardian deity of Katori Association Shrine is said to bring great fortune to visitors.

14 Chiba Prefecture 1 2

Have Fun in the Sun on the Enjoy beautiful sandy beaches along Kujukuri’s Kujukuri Coast expansive 66-kilometer-long coastline.

Located in eastern Chiba along the Pacific coast, Kujukuri is Japan’s 1 The entire coastline is part longest coastal beach, stretching about 66 kilometers from Cape of the Kujukuri Prefectural Natural Park. Gyobu to Cape Taito. With its pristine white sand, deep blue waters 2 Every year the beach and gorgeous pine trees, it’s easy to see why Kujukuri has been fills up with crowds of swimmers and surfers. selected as one of Japan’s 100 Most Beautiful Beaches. In addition 3 Create unforgettable to popular swim spots like Katakai Beach and surfing hotspots like memories horseriding on Sakuta Beach, there are plenty of restaurants and shops to enjoy. the beach. Reference Website: The expansive beauty of the Kujukuri Coast provides an all-day Chiba Prefectural sightseeing opportunity you won’t want to miss! Tourism & Local Products Association Local Delicacies in Chiba

Katsuura Tantanmen Eel from Narita Katsuura’s tantanmen noodles have Several eel restaurants line the road leading Seafood from Minamiboso become the standard way to warm to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, some of which Minamiboso has a lot of fishing up after a cold day on the ocean. have been in business for 300 years! There are harbors, and is a great place to enjoy Each restaurant offers their own quite a few long-standing restaurants that have fresh-caught seafood. Recommended unique spin on the dish, so it’s fun to passed down their secret sauce must-tries include rice bowls of fresh go from shop to shop to compare! for generations, so be sure to try sashimi, tender spiny lobster, grilled as many as you can. shellfish!

Chiba Prefecture 15 Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park SAITAMA About 45 minutes by train and bus from Omiya Station PREFECTURE Saitama has many mountains in the west where you can enjoy many activities in the mountains and rivers. Festivals are often held as well, so check it out when you visit.

Omiya Station

Chichibu Geo Gravity Park Nagatoro Minami Koshigaya About 1 hour 30 minutes by About 30 minutes by train About 2 hours 15 minutes by train train from Omiya Station to from Omiya Station to from Omiya Station Nagatoro Station Minamikoshigaya Station Camping & Trekking in Nagatoro Nagatoro is an all-inclusive glamping experience just a stone’s throw from the big city.

Make the most of Nagatoro’s natural beauty with a wide variety of exciting outdoor activities; rafting, hiking, foraging and more! Glamping in Nagatoro is as easy as it is fun—easily accessible by train from Kami-Nagatoro Station, Nogami Station and Higuchi Station, getting to one of the many campgrounds in the area is a cinch! Cottage rentals can include bedding, furniture, and cooking 1 equipment and ingredients, which means you can have an immersive camping experience without preparing anything ahead of time. 2 Free Wi-Fi? Check! Free air conditioning? Check! And there’s even nearby hot springs, which are the perfect way to relax after enjoying the great outdoors! English pamphlets are available at the Tourist Information Center at Nagatoro Station.

1 Bask in the beauty of the heart of nature. Reference Website: 2 Enjoy glamping in cottages or cabins. Nagatoro Tourism 3 Dive into fun aquatic activities, like Association Official kayaking and canoeing! Website

16 Saitama Prefecture River activities in Nagatoro

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A dynamic view woven into nature—enjoy summer in Nagatoro! 3

Just a short stroll from Nagatoro Station rests the layered rocks of Japan’s special National Treasure, Nagatoro Gorge. The giant, layered rocks spread out over 600 meters along the river, resembling Japanese tatami mats, with a 50-meter-high cliff on the opposite side. The sky and trees reflect upon the river like a pristine mirror, combining with everything else to give a dynamic view that is sure to be the highlight of your trip. There’s plenty to do on the river, and guided canoe rides are popular among people of all ages. In the summer you can enjoy rafting, kayaking, and even give standup paddle boarding a try. The Arakawa River has 1 There are 3 km and 6 km routes a strong current, so you can enjoy the spray of white water down the river. and the thrill of rapids. The beautiful view tops it all off to 2 Enjoy the thrill of the rapids as create an unforgettable experience. Be sure to try some local you head downstream. specialties near the station as well! 3 We recommend making a reservation to plan your summer Reference Website: rafting adventure. Nagatoro Tourism Association Official Website

Saitama Prefecture 17 Defy gravity in a variety of thrilling 1 activities surrounded by the beauty of nature!

The Chichibu Geo Gravity Park is a place in Japan where you can enjoy a variety of gravity- defying activities! Whether it’s the Canyon Walk—where you walk across the planks of a 100 meter suspension bridge across a river, strapped into a safety harness—the Canyon Fly—where you dangle from a wire and zoom through the canyon—or the Canyon Swing—a huge swing between two platforms in the canyon—you’re sure to experience serious thrills! Want more? A 400-meter zip line is scheduled to open in spring Chichibu Geo 2020! Please make reservations in advance.

Gravity Park 1 Dive into nature! Tandem with friends is also available. 2 Even if you aren’t afraid of heights, the suspension bridge is a daunting experience! 2 3 3 There’s nothing like the thrill of the wind on your face during the Canyon Fly.

Reference Website:

Geo Chichibu Gravity Area Tourism Park Organization

Minamikoshigaya 1 Awa-Odori The Awa-Odori is fun to watch, but even more fun to dance, and anyone can join in!

The Awa-Odori is one of Japan’s most enduring summer traditions, and the festivities in Minamikoshigaya are one of the country’s greatest, alongside the events in Tokushima, and Koenji in Tokyo. Drawn by the unforgettable rhythm of the dance and the vibrant calls of the performers, over

700,000 people attend Minamikoshigaya Awa-Odori every 2 year. While the performance has deep historical roots, the basic movements and two-beat rhythm means anyone can join in—after all, locals say “if you raise your hands and move your feet, you’re dancing the Awa-Odori!” Lessons are held for beginners throughout the festival, and the general public can join the Niwaka Ren dance troupe to have an official part in the festivities! Minamikoshigaya Awa-Odori is fun to watch, and even more fun to join in!

Reference 1 Minamikoshigaya Awa-Odori is held every year in late August, and Website: is one of Japan’s three great Awa-Odori festivals. Minamikoshigaya 2 Beginners can learn the steps to the dance, and then join in on the Awa-Odori fun with the Niwaka Ren dance troupe! 3 Dancers perform up and down the streets, up close and personal with the audience.

18 Saitama Prefecture Encompassing some 304 hectares, Musashi-Kyuryo Activities at Musashi National Government Park is vast, hilly area full of wooded Kyuryo National areas and swamps, and an ideal environment for precious animals and plants to thrive. Government Park Visitors can enjoy a leisurely Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities hike through the seasonal surrounded by greenery. trees and flowers, but for those looking to work up a sweat there’s a 17 km cycling course, as well as an obstacle course and the biggest air trampoline in Japan! With four cycle rental stations, a bicycle is the perfect way to see the entire park. There’s also restaurants, a botanical garden, a barbecue area, Segway tours and more!

1 1 Enjoy the fresh air and hilly forests of Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park. 2 3 2 There’s a giant splash pond for watery summer fun! 3 Ponpoko Mountain is the biggest air trampoline in Japan!

Reference Website: Official Website of Musashi-Kyuryo National Government Park

Local Delicacies in Saitama

Eel from Urawa Kawahaba Udon Negi Niboto Urawa, in Saitama Prefecture, is A local specialty, the unique thickness of this Negi niboto is a local gourmet dish synonymous with delicious eel. It has udon is part of what makes it so photogenic! made from negi—or green onions— a long history of eel fishing, and many It hails from the city of Konosu in Saitama grown in Fukaya, Saitama which is of the restaurants in the area have a Prefecture, and derives its name from the Japan’s largest producer of negi. proud heritage of serving nearby Konosu River. It also differs from The green onions are added to a rich this delicacy to guests and standard udon in terms of texture, which soup of soy and vegetables, and flat, visitors. is smooth and delicious—a must-try when toothsome noodles. visiting!

Saitama Prefecture 19 FUKUSHIMA Fukushima PREFECTURE Station Goshikinuma Ponds Fukushima has different climates and About 2 hours by train characteristics in each area, and its and bus from Fukushima attractions are diverse. Activities take Lake Hibara Station to Goshikinuma full advantage of Fukushima’s natural About 2 hours 30 entrance beauty, and the warm hearts of locals minutes by train and bus will create lasting memories. from Fukushima Station to Sugawara Bandai Kogen Sales Office

Aizu Clan School Nisshinkan Abukuma Cave About 2 hours and 10 About 1 hour 20 minutes by train and bus Urabandai minutes by train and from Fukushima Station About 2 hours by train from taxi from Fukushima to Aizu Clan School Station to Abukuma Nisshinkan Fukushima Station to Onogawa Lake entrance Cave

Canoe & Kayak in Urabandai 1 The perfect way to explore lakes, 2 3 canoeing and kayaking are staples of summer.

Summer in Urabandai goes hand in hand with canoeing or kayaking its many lakes, like Lake Hibara, Sohara Lake, and more! These refreshing summer activities perfectly complement the scenery of summer, with beautiful blue lakes and verdant mountains. With canoes and kayaks there’s always the possibility of falling in the water, but under the watchful eye of an experience instructor, it’s all part of the fun! There’s even a tour that takes you to untraveled 1 Travel deep into nature, and rest Reference Website: surrounded by greenery. Urabandai Tourism areas that you can only access by boat! With 2 The lake surface becomes mirror-like Official Website beginner programs that are suitable for children on calm, clear days. 3 Canoeing is a popular tourist activity! and seniors, you can enjoy summer fun for the whole family.

20 Fukushima Prefecture 1 2 Trekking at Goshikinuma Ponds Stroll through a forested area filled with a multitude of mysterious, blue-hued lakes. “Goshikinuma Ponds” is a generic term for numerous lakes and ponds which were formed by Mount Bandai’s volcanic eruption in 1888. Each body of water has a slightly different quality, and the surface reflects a multitude of colors, such as 3 emerald green, cobalt, turquoise or pastel blue. Goshikinuma Trail is a 3.6 km trekking course that runs east and west, and takes about 90 mins one-way. The hike is quite gentle and flat, and even in summer the weather is quite cool and mild. If you’ve had your fill of hiking, a bus runs along Route 459. Whatever you do, be sure to stop by Yaginuma to enjoy the views from the highest point along the trail.

1 Enjoy beautiful scenery of Mount Bandai from Rurinuma Observatory. 2 Go row boating on Bishamonnuma, Reference the biggest of Website: Goshikinuma’s ponds. Urabandai 3 The hike is gentle, but Tourism Official the path is unpaved, Site so please dress accordingly.

Fukushima Prefecture 21 Cruise on Lake Hibara Experience the true majesty of Mother Nature with a 1 cruise on the beautiful, island-filled Lake Hibara.

2 Many lakes and ponds were formed by the eruption of Mount Bandai. Lake Hibara is the largest of those lakes, with a shore length of approximately 31 km (19.6 mi) and a max depth of approximately 30 m (100 ft) in Urabandai, along the mountain’s north side. Large excursion boats operate on Lake Hibara from the end of April through the beginning of November, and these magnificent cruises offer views of Mount Bandai’s rough crater, and float between the islands that dot the lake. There are also motor boat cruises for anyone looking for a little speed and excitement. Urabandai is also recognized by BirdLife International as an Important Bird & Biodiversity Area, and visitors can expect to see a wide variety of wild mountainous birds and waterfowl.

1 Experience an elegant, 35-minute Reference cruise for only ¥1,300. Website: 2 Feast your eyes on scenery only Urabandai available here! Tourism Official Website 3 Enjoy incredible views of Mount 3 Bandai’s volcanic crater.

Explore 2 3 Abukuma Cave Enter another world—the world of mysteriously beautiful limestone caves!

Abukuma Cave is a natural work of art which was created over some 80 million years. Said to be one of the best in Asia, the tour through the cave traverses a 600-meter-long path and takes about 40 mins, during which you can see an incredible number and variety of stalactites. There are various highlights during the course, especially Tsuki no Sekai (“The Moon World”), the first show in Japan to utilize theatrical lights in limestone caves—it’s so beautiful it’ll take your breath away! Adventurous travelers should try the exploration course, where you squeeze through narrow spaces and traverse a log ladder and stepping stones. Dress warmly—even in summer, the inside of the cave is around 15℃.

1 Various stalactites can be observed in the 29-meter-high hall Takine Goten. 2 The strangely shaped Kinoko-Iwa (“Mushroom Rock”) on the slope of Ryugu Den. Reference Website: 3 The grand finale of the course is Tsuki Abukuma Cave Official no Sekai (“The Moon World”.) Website

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3 Try Japanese Archery at the Aizu Clan School Nisshinkan Experience Japanese culture and spirit at the school where samurai children once learned.

The Aizu Clan School Nisshinkan was built in 1803, and was used to educate the 1 Even beginners children of samurai in the area. More than 1,000 samurai children studied academics can enjoy Kyudo, thanks to the and martial arts here, and the school produced many noteworthy graduates. instruction of the Unfortunately, the school building was burned down during the Boshin War in 1868— staff. 2 The buildings looks however it was rebuilt at its current location to oversee the education of young people Reference Website: magnificent, and Aizu Clan School once more. In addition to a martial arts area, there is also an astronomical observatory hearken back to Nisshinkan Official on the vast property, and visitors can get hands-on with culture by making traditional old Japan. Website 3 The red color of the crafts. Visitors can also try Kyudo, or Japanese archery, which is quite popular. Even roofing tiles comes the inexperienced and children can try, since the bows visitors use are smaller than from iron mixed the bow used by practitioners. Although difficult, there’s nothing more exhilarating than in to prevent from breaking in winter. finally hitting the target! Local Delicacies in Fukushima

Peaches Japanese Sake Kitakata Ramen Fukushima is a prefecture with There are more than 50 sake breweries Kitakata Ramen originated in the city of orchards as far as the eye can see, in Fukushima Prefecture, many of which Kitakata. One of Japan’s “Three Great and summer is peach season. Many produce multiple award-winning sake Ramen”, its soy sauce soup is surprisingly orchards offer visitors the varietals! No two breweries light. There are about 120 ramen chance to pick ripe, juicy are alike, so we recommend restaurants and shops in the peaches right from the sampling as many as you area, so you should definitely do tree! can. a taste test!

Fukushima Prefecture 23 FUN AND SAFE SUMMER CHECKLIST

Swimsuit/ Sunscreen Sun Protective Rain Gear Beverages Change of UV rays are Clothing Be prepared for In order Clothes particularly strong Extended exposure to sudden heavy to prevent Bring a swimsuit in August. You direct sunlight increases rain. A poncho heatstroke, be for water can buy sunscreen the risk of heatstroke. is useful for sure to rehydrate, activities, and a at convenience Don’t forget to bring sun activities where even if you don’t change of clothes stores and drug protective clothing like you want to keep feel thirsty! for afterward. stores in Japan. brimmed hats and light your hands free. long-sleeve shirts.

MEASURES TO PREVENT HEATSTROKE

Beware Heatstroke Dizziness & Hot Flashes If You Think You Have Japanese summers are hot and Dizziness, vertigo and muscle Heatstroke humid, so please beware the cramps are all early symptoms If you notice symptoms of risk of heatstroke. You are more of heatstroke. You may also heatstroke, immediately consult likely to develop heatstroke feel languid, or nauseous. As a doctor or call an ambulance. in hot and humid weather, the condition progresses you Move to a cooler environment, after intense exercise, or other may also experience altered loosen your clothes and apply situations in which the body’s awareness, so recognizing an ice pack to your neck, armpit, temperature regulating system these early symptoms is or base of your foot. Drink fluids is impaired, so exercise caution. important. and replenish your electrolytes. If someone is vomiting or unconscious, do not make them drink anything! Reference: Japan Weather Association, general incorporated foundation

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